Diabetes affects over 29 million people in the country every year, so there’s a good chance you know someone who has diabetes. Despite how common it is, many people don’t really know too much about the condition. Here’s a look at some of the most important things you should know about diabetes.
Fact 1: Diabetes Is Not Caused only By Eating an Excess of Sugar
Many people believe diabetes is caused due to an excess of sugary foods and processed foods. While intake of such foods can increase your risk for obesity, heart diseases, type 2 diabetes, and a number of other diseases, it is not the primary cause for the condition. You can reduce your risk of developing the disease by taking care of your diet and exercising regularly. Those who already have diabetes can manage their condition by making the required lifestyle changes and taking the necessary oral medications or insulin as prescribed by the healthcare practitioner. Similarly, consuming excess sugar does not cause type 1 diabetes as well.
Fact 2: People Who Are Diagnosed with Diabetes Can Lead Healthy Lifestyles
Certain cost-effective interventions can help people diagnosed with diabetes manage their symptoms. These interventions include exercising, controlling blood sugar through the right diet, and, if necessary, taking the right medication.
Fact 3: Early Diagnosis of Diabetes Is Key to Living Well
The longer diabetes remains undiagnosed and unchecked, the harder it becomes to bring the condition back under control. Basic devices like blood glucose measurement are available in most primary healthcare settings, so you should be able to get your blood glucose measured.
Fact 4: Diabetes Can Be an Important Cause of Amputation, Blindness, and Kidney Failure
Diabetes of all types can result in a number of health-related complications and increase the diagnosed individual’s overall risk of passing away prematurely. Possible complications of diabetes include stroke, heart attack, leg amputation, kidney failure, nerve damage, and vision loss.
Fact 5: Type 2 Diabetes Is Easily Prevented
Thirty minutes of moderate-intensity exercise and consuming a healthy diet can significantly reduce your chances of developing type 2 diabetes.
